Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Wide Bay and Burnett and Southeast Coast Forecast Districts.

Issued at 6:28 pm Thursday, 31 October 2024.

DESTRUCTIVE WINDS AND GIANT HAIL POSSIBLE IN THUNDERSTORMS NORTHWEST OF GYMPIE.

Weather situation: Severe thunderstorms are developing in a humid and unstable airmass over inland parts of the southeast. Storms are likely to be moving east and northeast and may persist throughout the afternoon.

VERY DANGEROUS THUNDERSTORMS are likely to produce damaging, locally destructive winds, large, possibly giant hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Gympie, Gayndah, Childers, Cooroy, Nambour and Tiaro.

Emergency services advise people to:
* If you have children make sure they are with you or an adult you trust.
* Pack away, secure or tie down outdoor furniture, toys and trampolines if it s safe to do so.
* Stay away from windows if there is giant hail.
* Park your car undercover away from trees.
* Close doors and windows.
* Keep asthma medications close by. Storms and wind can trigger asthma attacks.
* Charge mobile phones and power banks in case the power goes out.
* Put your pets somewhere safe and make sure they can be identified in case they get lost.
* Do not drive now unless you have to because conditions are dangerous.
* Tell friends, family and neighbours in the area.
* Go inside a strong building now. Stay inside until the storm has passed.